Aycock Millpond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Aycock Millpond Dam, also known as Sasser Millpond Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Snow Hill, North Carolina.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1880, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 8.5 feet and a structural height of 12 feet, with a length of 350 feet. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a storage capacity of 158 acre-feet and a surface area of 75 acres.

The dam is situated on the Great Swamp, within Wayne County, and covers a drainage area of 5056 acres. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in March 2018. Classified as having a high hazard potential, its condition remains unrated. With a maximum discharge of 165 cubic feet per second, the dam poses a risk that requires careful monitoring and management to ensure the safety of surrounding areas.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Aycock Millpond Dam presents an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and maintenance. As the structure continues to age, its role in providing recreational opportunities while mitigating potential hazards underscores the complex interplay between human development and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate patterns. Further research and analysis will be crucial in determining the long-term sustainability and resilience of this historic dam within the context of changing hydrological conditions.

Year Completed

1880

Dam Length

350

River Or Stream

Great Swamp

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

75

Hydraulic Height

8.5

Drainage Area

5056

Nid Storage

158

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.